Free Family-Friendly Museums in Minnesota
Looking for free museums in the Twin Cities for kids? We have you covered with more than a dozen great options! Whether you want to explore art, history, or hands-on science, there are plenty of budget-friendly options throughout the area. This guide covers some of the best museums in the Twin Cities for families—some are always free, while others offer special free museum days in 2026. From interactive exhibits at the Minnesota Children’s Museum to the massive art installations at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, you’ll find free family things to do in Minnesota in this guide that are both fun and educational. No matter the season, these museums offer the perfect indoor activities (without spending a dime!).
Please keep reading to find out where to explore, learn, and play for free this year!
Always Free Museums in the Twin Cities for Families
Free museums offer plenty of fun family things to do for Minnesota kids and their parents. Luckily, several kid-friendly museums in the Twin Cities are always free! Here are 12 exciting museums that offer free admission to all guests throughout the year (and a few more at the end with free admission based on age).
Cafesjian Art Trust Museum
4600 Churchill St, Shoreview, MN 55126
The Cafesjian Art Trust Museum is one of the most delightful free museums in the Twin Cities for families. And, it absolutely deserves a spot on your weekend outing list. Open for drop-in visits every Saturday, this museum is the perfect size for kids to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Little ones can wander through colorful contemporary art. Along the way, complete a scavenger hunt to win a small prize. The ever-changing exhibitions that keep things fresh. Stop by the cozy family nook, too. It is stocked with sketching supplies, kid-friendly books, and comfy seating. Families also love the interactive prompts sprinkled throughout the galleries. They help kids and adults alike engage with the art in playful, accessible ways.
Check the museum’s website for free family programs! They offer everything from Story Time to Preschool Pals and activities for babies, teens, and everyone in between.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404
The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is a must-visit for families who love creativity and exploration. As one of the best free museums in Minneapolis for families, Mia offers an incredible collection of over 90,000 artworks. You will enjoy everything from ancient sculptures to vibrant contemporary pieces. Kids and adults alike will marvel at towering statues, colorful textiles, and captivating paintings.
For even more hands-on fun, Mia’s Family Day is every second Sunday. Family Day features interactive exhibits, art activities, storytelling, and scavenger hunts. All designed just for kids! When you need a quick break during your visit, pop into the Family Center. It’s an excellent spot for a little free play. Whether you’re admiring masterpieces in the galleries or creating your own, this museum makes art exciting and accessible.
If you’re looking for free museums in the Twin Cities for kids, Mia is a top choice—perfect for a rainy day, winter outing, or just a dose of creativity!
Schubert Club Music Museum
75 W 5th St #302, St Paul, MN 55102
The Schubert Club Music Museum is the perfect day out for young aspiring musicians. Tucked inside the historic Landmark Center in downtown Saint Paul, this interactive space is undoubtedly one of the best free museums for kids in the Twin Cities.
Each exhibit enriches your child’s understanding of music and music theory through audio and video storytelling. In fact, kids can play instruments from around the world, experiment with a Wall of Percussion, and dive into the fascinating world of music history through hands-on exhibits.
Finally, the Instrument Tornado surrounds visitors with swirling sounds from different cultures around the world—an unforgettable experience for all ages!
Minnesota Museum of American Art
350 Robert St N, St Paul, MN 55101
For a budget-friendly family outing, visit the Minnesota Museum of American Art. It is undoubtedly one of our favorite free family-friendly museums in the Twin Cities. This local gem in downtown Saint Paul is known as “the M”. It offers vibrant exhibits featuring diverse American artists. Kids will love exploring colorful paintings and thought-provoking sculptures. Not to mention, the museum’s unique Window Galleries, where storytelling meets visual art.
The museum’s welcoming space encourages young visitors to experience art—not just observe it. Whether they’re admiring bold contemporary pieces or discovering new perspectives, the M sparks curiosity and conversation.
If you’re searching for free museums in Saint Paul for kids, the M is a fantastic spot to inspire creativity without breaking the bank.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
1225 Estabrook Dr, St. Paul, MN 55103
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is an excellent spot for families seeking free family activities in Minnesota. Located in Saint Paul, this beloved zoo and botanical garden offers year-round fun with outdoor wildlife exhibits and lush indoor gardens.
Kids will love spotting giraffes, zebras, and polar bears outside. Then, step inside to see sloths, frogs, and reptiles up close. Meanwhile, the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory offers a warm escape featuring tropical plants, koi ponds, and seasonal floral displays. As one of the best free museums in the Twin Cities for kids, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory offers a fun mix of adventure and learning for all ages.
While admission is free, donations are encouraged to support the care of the animals and gardens.
Walker Art Center
725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403
The Walker Art Center is an excellent option for families seeking free museums in Minnesota for kids. Located in Minneapolis, it offers 11 galleries of modern and contemporary art, performances, and a state-of-the-art cinema. While kids 17 and under are always free, adults may need to pay for admission (unless the visit falls on one of the 2026 free days).
Beyond the exhibitions, the Walker also features interactive installations and performances that engage children of all ages. There’s always something happening at the Walker to spark creativity and conversation with your children.
The Walker Art Center is always free for children 18 and under, EBT cardholders, members, and citizens of Tribal Nations.
Additionally, in 2026, free museum days for everyone will occur on Thursday Nights from 5 to 9 pm, during Free First Saturdays, and on Sensory Friendly Sundays.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Let your child’s imagination run wild at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, one of the best free outdoor museums in Minneapolis for kids. In partnership with the Walker Art Center, this 11-acre outdoor gallery is home to more than 60 larger-than-life sculptures, including the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry.
Challenge your kids to find their favorite artwork. They can choose from a towering blue rooster, a leaping hare atop a bell, and more. Grab a self-guided tour sheet. Or, use the free Bloomberg Connects app. Each one can help you uncover the stories behind these fascinating sculptures. Whether you’re visiting on a sunny summer day or bundled up for a winter walk, this urban art park is a fantastic spot for families.
With free admission every day, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is an easy and inspiring outing—perfect for sparking creativity while enjoying some fresh air together!
Tour the Minnesota State Capitol
75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, St Paul, MN 55155
Step inside the Minnesota State Capitol for a fascinating (and free!) family adventure. As one of the best free museums in the Twin Cities for kids, this stunning building is packed with history, art, and architecture that will captivate visitors of all ages.
Take a free guided tour to explore the grand legislative chambers, towering marble columns, and breathtaking murals. Kids will also be in awe of the golden Quadriga statues on the roof—not to mention the massive marble dome. It’s one of the largest self-supported domes in the world! On a nice day, you may even get to step outside for a panoramic city view.
Whether you choose a guided tour or explore at your own pace, the Minnesota State Capitol is an engaging way to introduce kids to local Minnesota history and government. Undoubtedly, if you’re looking for free family things to do in Minnesota, this iconic landmark is a must!
Weisman Art Museum
333 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55455
Families looking for unique, family-friendly, and free museums in Minneapolis will adore meandering the well-curated galleries at the Weisman Art Museum. Located on the University of Minnesota campus, this architecturally stunning museum offers an ever-changing collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and photography—all with free admission. Plus, they are dedicated to providing a family-friendly experience.
Kids will love the building’s bold, modern design before stepping inside to explore interactive exhibits and colorful artwork. The museum’s collection spans everything from American masterpieces to traditional Korean furniture, sparking curiosity and conversation. Drop in for a free student-led tour. University of Minnesota guides bring the exhibits to life during the tour with engaging stories and themes. This is a great way to enhance your visit with inquisitive kids!
As one of the best family-friendly museums in the Twin Cities, the Weisman is an easy, no-cost way to introduce kids to the world of art. Whether you’re admiring ceramics, exploring photography, or just soaking in the vibrant colors, this Minneapolis gem is a fantastic stop for families!
Northwest Airlines History Center
3 Appletree Square, Bloomington, MN 55425
For a unique and totally free dive into local aviation history, visit the Northwest Airlines History Center. Located inside the Crowne Plaza AiRE MSP Hotel in Bloomington, this hidden gem is packed with 4,000+ artifacts celebrating Northwest Airlines’ 80-year legacy.
Kids will be amazed by vintage flight uniforms, historic aircraft models, and World War II-era aviation stories. The museum offers a fascinating walk through time, showing how air travel shaped history and brought people together. In fact, you’ll learn just how Northwest helped connect the world—from wartime flights to family vacations. If you have a young aviation enthusiast at home, this museum is certainly worth a visit.
It’s an easy stop for families looking for free museums in the Twin Cities for kids.
Keep reading to discover more free Minnesota museums for families!
Franconia Sculpture Park
29836 St Croix Trail N, Shafer, MN 55074
Let creativity roam at Franconia Sculpture Park, one of Minnesota’s best free museums for families. Just 45 minutes from Minneapolis, this 50-acre outdoor museum in Shafer is filled with massive, interactive sculptures that invite exploration, imagination, and play.
Kids can wander among larger-than-life artworks, climb inside certain installations, and experience art in ways that are anything but traditional. Set against the scenic St. Croix River Valley, it’s a perfect spot for a family picnic or nature walk while discovering bold, contemporary pieces.
With free admission year-round, Franconia is an easy, budget-friendly adventure featuring art, nature, and hands-on fun. Whether visiting for a quiet afternoon or a special event, this park proves that museums don’t have to be indoors to be inspiring!
All My Relations Arts
1414 E Franklin Ave #1, Minneapolis, MN
Experience the vibrant world of Native American art at All My Relations Arts (AMRA), one of the Twin Cities’ best free museums. Located on Franklin Avenue, in the heart of the American Indian Cultural Corridor, this gallery showcases contemporary Native American artists from across the country. With 4 to 6 exhibitions per year, there’s always something new to explore.
Kids will love the vibrant, thought-provoking art. Each piece sparks conversations about history, culture, and creativity. Plus, AMRA offers a welcoming space for families to learn about Native American culture through art. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a family outing here, where the art is as interactive as it is inspiring.
With free admission, AMRA is an unforgettable stop for a family day out in Minneapolis!
Family Friendly Minnesota Museums with Free Admission Based on Age
Several Twin Cities museums also offer free admission for kids of a certain age. While these museums are not free for siblings or adults, they are an excellent option for those with littles in tow or who meet the age requirements.
Here are a few more of the best museums in the Twin Cities for families with kids:
- Bell Museum is always free for kids 2 and under, UMN Students (with student ID), and Indigenous peoples.
- The Works Museum is always free for kids 2 and under.
- Bakken Museum is always free for kids 3 and under and Native American Admission. They also offer limited income admission to qualifying families.
- The Science Museum of Minnesota is always free for children 4 and under. It also offers an income-based rate for qualifying families.
- Mill City Museum is always free for kids 4 and under and Blue Star Families.
- Walker Art Center is always free for kids 17 and under.
- The Minnesota Historical Society offers a 6th-grade MN History Pass, which gives students free admission to MNHS sites and museums across the state.
Kid-Friendly Museums in the Twin Cities with Free Days in 2026
Next, a few more Twin Cities museums offer free admission for kids and their families on special days throughout the year. These 2026 free museum days are a great way to introduce kids to these museums and their exciting exhibits. Please keep reading to find even more free family things to do in Minnesota with your kids—and don’t forget to mark your calendars!
Looking for more family-friendly museum ideas? Please read about our top picks for the 13 Best Museums in the Twin Cities for Kids (Babies to Teens).
Minnesota Children’s Museum
10 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
The Minnesota Children’s Museum in downtown Saint Paul is a must-visit for families with young kids. Packed with hands-on, interactive exhibits, the museum invites children to explore, create, and learn in a fun, stimulating environment.
Little ones can start their adventure at The Scramble, a giant climbing structure complete with a catwalk (kids can pretend to be superheroes!). Meanwhile, older kids can dive into Our World. This pretend town lets them play community roles like firefighters or postal workers. With 11 unique exhibits, there is no shortage of interactive and hands-on experiences! Plus, when the weather’s nice, be sure to check out the outdoor spaces like The Tip Top Terrace and The Backyard for even more fun!
Securian Financial Free First Sunday offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month. Tickets for these special 2026 free museum days are available at 10 am two weeks before each event. Be sure to reserve a ticket for every adult, child, and infant attending, as capacity is limited. Free days are a fantastic way to enjoy a day full of interactive play and learning without spending a penny!
Walker Art Center
725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403
FREE DAY: Every Thursday from 3-8pm
The Walker Art Center is an excellent option for families seeking free museums in Minnesota for kids. Located in Minneapolis, it offers 11 galleries of modern and contemporary art, performances, and a state-of-the-art cinema. While kids 18 and under are always free, adults may need to pay for their admission unless the visit coincides with one of the free days outlined below.
Beyond the exhibitions, the Walker also features interactive installations and performances that are engaging for children of all ages. From educational programs to family-friendly events, there’s always something happening to spark creativity and conversation. With free admission days, the Walker Art Center is the perfect spot for a fun, artistic family outing.
The Walker Art Center is always free for children 18 and under, EBT cardholders, members, and citizens of Tribal Nations. Additionally, in 2026, free museum days for everyone will occur on Thursday Nights from 5 to 9 pm, during Free First Saturdays, and on Sensory Friendly Sundays.
American Swedish Institute
2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Discover the charm of the American Swedish Institute (ASI) in Minneapolis, a captivating cultural hub boasting historic architecture with modern Nordic art. The Turnblad Mansion, a grand 1908 castle listed on the National Register of Historic Places, houses the museum’s exhibitions and offers a glimpse into the past.
ASI also offers family-friendly features and activities, art programs, and special events that explore contemporary Nordic culture. Don’t forget to visit FIKA Café for delicious New Nordic cuisine. Of course, you can also browse and shop for Nordic-inspired treasures at the Museum Store.
Finally, the museum is always free for Indigenous community members, Blue Star Families, and those part of qualifying low-income programs.
Have Fun Exploring these Free Minnesota Museums in the Twin Cities with Your Kids!
Whether you’re exploring rich local history at the American Swedish Institute or enjoying interactive sculptures at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, the Twin Cities offer a wealth of opportunities for families to enjoy free museum days in the Twin Cities with their kids. Don’t miss out on 2026 free museum days to make the most of these incredible cultural gems. With so many options, you’ll find that many of the best museums in the Twin Cities for families are not only educational and fun, but also accessible at no cost.
Whether in Minneapolis or Saint Paul, these free museums for kids in Minneapolis and Saint Paul promise a memorable day out for the whole family!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
